Back from the brink

Some welcome relief in the EU/US move against Iran's nuclear program: even if it's eager to lend its name to the group for the purpose of political pressure, the UK isn't willing to consider military action:

Military action against Iran is inconceivable and diplomacy could still end the international standoff over Tehran's nuclear program, said British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, whose country plays a key role in negotiations...

“All United States presidents always say all options are open. But it is not on the table, it is not on the agenda. I happen to think that it is inconceivable,” Mr. Straw told British Broadcasting Corp. radio on Wednesday.

As illogical as any military action would seem, there's still a nagging sense that an Iraq withdrawal/Iran invasion could be a handy way for Bushco to try to rally the (political) troops next year. With any luck, Britain's newfound recognition that diplomacy is generally a better policy than invasion will help to make sure that doesn't happen.